Week 4 of the 2025 NFL season promises an exciting matchup as the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This game features two undefeated teams, and while the focus is likely on key players like Jalen Hurts and Mike Evans, tight end Dallas Goedert deserves a closer look, especially for those making crucial start or sit decisions in their fantasy football lineups.
Current Performance and Role
Last week against the Los Angeles Rams, Goedert recorded only one catch, but it was a crucial 33-yard touchdown that energized the Eagles’ offense. Prior to that moment, Philadelphia struggled to find its rhythm. Goedert’s ability to make an impactful play when it mattered most is notable and adds some intrigue to his potential for Week 4.
Despite his touchdown, Goedert’s overall statistics leave much to be desired. Averaging just 9.6 yards per reception, he has been somewhat inconsistent. He missed the previous game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a knee sprain, raising questions about his long-term health and involvement in the Eagles’ passing game.
Recent Trends in Fantasy Football
In terms of fantasy football performance, Goedert’s single touchdown play was sufficient to secure him a top-10 finish among tight ends for that week. However, a deep dive into his overall season performance indicates that he has not been consistently productive. While a touchdown can elevate a player’s status in fantasy, it cannot overshadow the fact that he has only been targeted a limited number of times.
Matchup Analysis: Eagles vs. Buccaneers
Now, shifting the focus towards the Week 4 matchup against the Buccaneers, it becomes clear that Goedert faces a challenging situation. The Tampa Bay defense has demonstrated a solid ability to contain opposing tight ends. Throughout the first three games of the season, they have allowed just 14 receptions for a mere 106 yards to tight ends, translating to an average of only 3.5 fantasy points per game.
These statistics are particularly concerning for Goedert owners. With a tight end landscape that often fluctuates week-to-week, having a reliable option is crucial, especially when considering the matchups. The Buccaneers’ defensive prowess, especially against tight ends, suggests that Goedert may struggle to recapture the momentum he built with his late-game touchdown against the Rams.
Start or Sit Recommendations
PPR Leagues: Given the defensive matchup and Goedert’s average yards per reception, the recommendation is to sit Goedert in PPR formats. The Buccaneers’ stingy defense complicates his potential for significant contributions, especially when considering that the Eagles have other options in the passing game to exploit.
Standard Leagues: The assessment remains the same; it’s wise to sit Goedert in standard leagues as well. His lone touchdown last week, while critical for the game, does not compensate for the lack of consistent targets in the offensive scheme. With the threat of a tough Buccaneers defense coupled with Goedert’s inconsistent performance thus far, looking for alternatives in your lineup seems prudent.
Alternatives to Consider
For those looking to streamline their lineups, consider targeting other tight ends with favorable matchups. Players like David Njoku, who is seeing increased involvement in the Browns’ offense, or even Logan Thomas, who’s emerging as a reliable target for the Commanders, might be better options to fill the tight end position in Week 4.
Conclusion
As we head into this pivotal week in fantasy football, your decision on whether to start or sit Dallas Goedert will heavily depend on the context of your specific lineup and league settings. The Eagles’ upcoming game against the Buccaneers presents considerable challenges, making it advisable to err on the side of caution with Goedert. His performance last week was commendable, but the tough matchup ahead dims his overall outlook for fantasy purposes. Stay informed, assess your options, and make the best choice for your lineup this week.
